What is included in NYC apartment rent and what do you pay extra?

Question

Accepted Answer

Unlike many European cities, NYC rental prices rarely include utilities. It is important to understand exactly what your monthly rent covers before signing.

Typically included in NYC rent:

Use of the apartment unit
Building maintenance and common area cleaning
Heat and hot water (in most buildings — required by law in winter)
Building amenities such as gym, rooftop or doorman (in luxury buildings)

Typically NOT included and paid separately:

Electricity
Gas (for cooking or heating in some apartments)
Internet and cable
Air conditioning electricity costs
Parking (usually a significant extra cost in NYC)
Storage units (if applicable)

Tip: Always ask the landlord or current tenant what average monthly utility bills are. For a 1-bedroom in NYC, electricity alone typically adds $80–$150 per month in 2026.